Dr. Tom FredFish, a prominent chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Akwa Ibom and Chairman of PDP Advocates for Peace and Justice (PAPAJ), has expressed strong disapproval over the declaration of a State of Emergency in Rivers State. He criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s decision to suspend Governor Sim Fubara, attributing the ongoing crisis to the PDP’s failure to take decisive action against Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Presidential Bias and PDP’s Failure
In an exclusive interview with LMSINT MEDIA, Dr. FredFish condemned the President’s stance on the Rivers crisis, describing it as politically motivated and a strategic move ahead of the 2027 elections. According to him, the PDP leadership, including Atiku Abubakar, failed to address Wike’s alleged anti-party activities, which contributed to the party’s internal discord.
Why the PDP Remained Silent
FredFish questioned why the PDP remained passive despite Wike’s alleged unruly behavior. He argued that the party’s loss in the 2023 elections left it too weak to discipline Wike, enabling him to maintain dominance within the party. He emphasized that Wike’s unwillingness to reconcile with Governor Fubara stemmed from a perception of power and self-importance, making genuine peace talks unfeasible.
Lack of Leadership and Consequences
Expressing dissatisfaction with the PDP leadership, FredFish criticized Atiku Abubakar for failing to act as an elder statesman. He warned that as long as Wike remains in the party, instability will persist. According to him, Wike’s influence has plunged the PDP into turmoil, and without firm disciplinary measures, the party risks losing credibility.
Will APC Take Over Rivers State?
Despite the crisis, FredFish dismissed the possibility of the All Progressives Congress (APC) taking over Rivers State before the 2027 elections. He highlighted the party’s unpopularity in the region, stating that Wike and the 27 Assembly members planned to impeach Fubara and defect to the APC, but public resistance thwarted their agenda.
Implications of the Governor’s Suspension
The six-month suspension of Governor Fubara poses significant threats to democracy and governance in Rivers State. FredFish outlined several concerns:
- Political Exploitation: The President’s actions suggest a misuse of constitutional loopholes for political advantage.
- Democratic Erosion: If a sitting President can remove a governor, democracy is under threat.
- Economic Disruptions: The Supreme Court’s decision to withhold Rivers State’s allocation until a proper local government election is conducted raises concerns about governance and development.
- Security Risks: The crisis could lead to renewed hostilities, oil bunkering, and militancy in the Niger Delta, affecting national revenue.
Urgent Steps for PDP’s Survival
FredFish urged the PDP to take immediate action, including:
- Expelling Wike from the party due to his anti-party activities.
- Issuing strong condemnations against the President’s decision.
- Enforcing discipline by expelling the 27 lawmakers who attempted to impeach Fubara.
According to The Guardian, political analysts believe that unless the PDP resolves its internal crisis, it risks further fragmentation ahead of the 2027 elections.
Conclusion
The ongoing political unrest in Rivers State underscores the urgent need for decisive leadership within the PDP. As tensions escalate, the party must address internal conflicts to restore stability and strengthen its position in the national political landscape.
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